New York, October 19, 2007 - The Committee to Protect Journalists released the following statement today in response to the brutal assassination of Bashiir Noor Gedi, acting Manager of the leading independent broadcaster Radio Shabelle, who was shot dead this evening by unknown gunmen outside his home.

“We condemn the brutal killing of Bashiir Noor Gedi, and extend our deepest condolences to his family and colleagues,” said CPJ's Africa Program Coordinator Tom Rhodes. “The Somali transitional government must conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into this murder and bring those responsible to justice.”

CPJ is a New York–based, independent, nonprofit organization that works to safeguard press freedom worldwide. For more information, visit www.cpj.org .